Force says portable buildings will be ready for officers’ arrival in the coming days

Dorset Police has defended itself over “concerns” that the temporary accommodation it is providing for officers on mutual aid during the Olympic Sailing Event is not fit for purpose.

Hundreds of officers from other forces will stay at Compass Point, near the Portland Sailing Academy, while the event is being held.

The force said there was a “challenge” in providing accommodation for several hundred officers – but maintained the accommodation site was still under construction and would undergo inspections before officers moved in during late July.

PoliceOracle.com understands the Compass Point accommodation is made up of temporary portable buildings which a national newspaper called “tiny metal boxes, with just a basic toilet and basin and little ventilation”.

John Coppen, the Fed’s Lead on the Olympics, said accommodation was constructed of portable-type buildings similar to those found on building sites.

ACC Adrian Whiting of Dorset Police said Compass Point would meet the same specification for all Olympic bulk accommodation when it was finished.

He added: “We have contacted those forces contributing mutual aid to reassure them that the site is still under construction and not yet ready for habitation.

“We continue to work closely with the Police Federation, other staff associations and those managing the contract while construction continues.

“I will also be conducting further reviews of the intended facilities to ensure we meet the required commitments to allow people temporarily accommodated at Compass Point to be able to work effectively and keep people safe.

“The site will be fully fitted and cleaned prior to any officers moving in during late July and we will ensure there is a comprehensive inspection involving staff associations, the Dorset Police Authority and Home Office representatives.”

A force spokeswoman would not comment on the specifics of people’s concerns about the accommodation.

Mr Coppen added: “At this moment, we are trying to work with the force to make the accommodation habitable.”

The Fed Chair agreed it was difficult to find large-scale accommodation in the area, saying: “The only place in Dorset with lots of hotels is Bournemouth.”